Team Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to ensure that the rights of individuals are upheld and that governments are held accountable for their actions. The organization operates in various regions around the world, including Central Africa, where it has a regional office in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The OHCHR aims to foster a culture of human rights and to support the implementation of international human rights standards. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to promoting gender equality and inclusivity within its ranks.

Job Overview:
The Team Assistant position at the OHCHR Central Africa Regional Office in Yaoundé, Cameroon, is a vital role that encompasses a wide range of administrative and office support functions. The incumbent will be responsible for providing comprehensive administrative assistance to the Regional Representative and the team. This includes managing correspondence, organizing information, and ensuring that all office processes run smoothly. The Team Assistant will play a crucial role in maintaining the office's operational efficiency by monitoring schedules, preparing documents, and facilitating communication within the team and with external stakeholders. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while adhering to deadlines. The Team Assistant will also be expected to contribute to the preparation of meetings and events, ensuring that all logistical aspects are well-coordinated and executed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Team Assistant include performing a wide range of office support and administrative functions. This involves drafting responses to routine correspondence, producing complex documents and reports, and monitoring processes related to the unit's outputs. The Team Assistant will assist in verifying the accuracy of documents and approvals, compile information for reports and meetings, and proofread documents for accuracy and adherence to established standards. Additionally, the role includes screening phone calls and visitors, providing secretarial support for meetings, maintaining the calendar of the Regional Representative, and managing distribution lists. The Team Assistant will also handle general administrative tasks such as recording attendance, arranging meetings, and processing administrative requests. Furthermore, the incumbent will assist in providing software and office equipment support and perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A first-level university degree or higher can reduce the required work experience. The position requires a minimum of three years of experience in general office support or a related area, with at least one year of administrative experience within the United Nations Common System or a similar international organization being desirable. Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems such as Umoja is also considered an asset. The ideal candidate should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher will have a reduced experience requirement, making them more competitive for the role. This educational background is essential for understanding the administrative processes and procedures necessary for effective office support.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in general office support or a related area. However, candidates who possess a first-level university degree or higher may qualify with only one year of experience. It is also desirable for candidates to have at least one year of administrative experience within the United Nations Common System or a similar international organization. Experience with ERP systems such as Umoja is an added advantage, as it indicates familiarity with modern administrative tools and processes.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in both languages is required. Candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both English and French, as per the UN Language Framework. This bilingual requirement is crucial for effective communication within the organization and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be residents of Cameroon or within commuting distance of the office. The appointment is contingent upon the availability of funds and the extension of the mandate. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender balance and strongly encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process will include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.